Abu Dhabi, UAE
Cost of living · 2023 · Middle East · Rent +6.8% vs 2022
Rent trend in Abu Dhabi (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Abu Dhabi (2023)
Estimated monthly budget in Abu Dhabi
Based on 2023 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in UAE (2023)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Abu Dhabi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | AED 6,768 | AED 1,363 | AED 357 | AED 630 | — |
| Dubai | AED 7,990 | AED 1,504 | AED 390 | AED 677 | +18.1% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Abu Dhabi in 2023?
In 2023, a single person living in Abu Dhabi needs approximately AED 9,554/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around AED 18,285/month. Abu Dhabi is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Abu Dhabi in 2023?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Abu Dhabi costs approximately AED 6,768/month in 2023. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around AED 12,690/month. Rent has changed +6.8% vs 2022.
How much do groceries cost in Abu Dhabi?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Abu Dhabi are approximately AED 1,363 in 2023. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Abu Dhabi?
A monthly public transport pass in Abu Dhabi costs AED 357 in 2023, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Abu Dhabi?
Monthly utility costs in Abu Dhabi average AED 630 in 2023, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Abu Dhabi expensive to live in?
Abu Dhabi is located in UAE (Middle East). With a 1-bed rent of AED 6,768/month and total single-person expenses around AED 9,554/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Abu Dhabi?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Abu Dhabi costs approximately AED 55 in 2023. Budget around AED 436/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Abu Dhabi changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Abu Dhabi from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 20.6% over this period (from AED 6,336 in 2022 to AED 7,638 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Abu Dhabi?
To live comfortably in Abu Dhabi in 2023, a single person needs approximately AED 9,554/month. This covers rent (AED 6,768), groceries (AED 1,363), transport (AED 357), utilities (AED 630) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around AED 18,285/month.